Katalina Gonzalez is a senior on the Track and Field team, while also being a HOSA club officer and MedTech student. With her sport soon starting, Gonzalez was interviewed on her goals and plans for the season.

This season is not Gonzalez´s first time on the field. She has been a student athlete for three years, and this season she will be competing in the long jump and high jump events.

It is widely known that balancing academics and athletics can be a tricky feat. Gonzalez shared how she plans on keeping up her grades while also giving her best effort in Track.

“In my experience, what’s helped me most is doing as much work during my classes as I can. Sometimes it’s hard staying focused, but knocking out homework and assignments during school hours saves me the stress of having a lot to do later.”

As a MedTech student, attendance is a big aspect of grading. Gonzalez shared what she will do to help satisfy her teachers and coaches alike.

She said, “Showing up when I can and communicating when I can’t is how I’ll balance MedTech and a sport. I’m lucky to have a teacher and site supervisor who are understanding of the time a sport takes away, as well as coaches who know sometimes missing practice is necessary.”

Sports can be a stressful environment, if tensions and pressure are too high. However, Gonzalez reflects on how the oddest moments during practice actually make the biggest difference.

“The sillier an exercise or drill feels, the more it’ll help you improve. Lots of people are embarrassed to try in fear of looking silly, but honestly it’s the uncomfortable stuff that will make you stronger.“

It is clear that Gonzalez works hard to improve, but also keeps the environment light and fun. This aligns with her goals for the season.

Gonzalez said, “My biggest goal this season is to prioritize having fun along with growth. While I’m willing to put in the work to improve, I also keep in mind that at the end of the day we won’t always get the results we wish for, and that’s okay!“

Lastly, as this is her last high school Track and Field season, Gonzalez was asked about what she is most looking forward to in the next few months. 

“I’m most excited for all the memories I’ll make at my meets. I plan to vlog as much as I can so that I’ll be able to look back on special moments. It’s my last track season and I plan to                                                                       make the most of it!“

Only time will tell how her season goes, but the most important thing is that Gonzalez is committed to making the most of her senior year!